Abstrakt

3D printing is a technology with possibilities related to the production
of elements of any geometry, directly from a digital project. Elements
made of plastic are metalized to give new properties such as
conductivity or corrosion resistance. In this work, experimental work
related to the electroless deposition of metallic coatings on plastics
was carried out. For this purpose, the copper and nickel coatings were
catalytically deposited on elements printed using hard-lightened resin.
The effect of the metallization time on the properties of copper and
nickel coatings was determined. In addition, the process of deposition
metals in the magnetic field was analyzed with different direction of
magnetic field to the surface of the samples. The coatings were analyzed
by XRF, XRD method and morphology of surface was observed by scanning
electron microscopy (SEM).

Abstrakt

The influence of the electrode geometry on the microstructure and
corrosion behaviour of Co-Mo nano-crystalline coatings elaborated by
electrodeposition is studied. The corrosion behaviour was determined in
the Ringer’s solution at 25°C. Electrodeposition mechanisms are also
discussed as a function of the electrode geometry. The electrode
geometry was found to affect the growth rate and, under certain
conditions, the microstructure (existence of channels and pores). It
does not have influence on the corrosion behaviour.

Abstrakt

The aim of this work is to develop a numerical model capable of
predicting the grain density in the Mg-based matrix phase of an AZ91/SiC
composite, as a function of the total mass fraction of the embedded SiC
particles. Based on earlier work in a range of alloy systems, we assume
an exponential relationship between the grain density and the maximum
supercooling during solidification. Analysis of data from cast samples
with different thicknesses, and mass fractions of added SiCp, permits
conclusions to be drawn on the role of SiCp in increasing grain density.
By fitting the data, an empirical nucleation law is derived that can be
used in a micro model. Numerical simulation based on the model can
predict the grain density of magnesium alloys containing SiC particles,
using the mass fraction of the particles as inputs. These predictions
are compared with measured data.

Abstrakt

Hot Isostatic Pressing elaboration of Norem02, an austenitic-ferritic
hypereutectoid stainless steel, leads to the formation of an austenitic
matrix with a mixture of acicular M7C3 and globular M23C6 carbides. The
sintering tests, carried out by using an AISI 304L container, showed
that the final microstructure and the carbides’ distribution of the
HIPed Norem02 are strongly influenced by the process parameters (heating
and cooling rate, sintering time, holding temperature and pressure) and
by the particles’ size, microstructure and phase distribution of the
initial powder. The morphological, crystallographic and chemical
analysis of the sintered samples were completed by comprehension of the
diffusion phenomena at the Norem02/304L interface, enabling the
establishment of a correlation between elaboration process and final
microstructure.

Abstrakt

The influence on the corrosion behaviour of Co-Mo nano-crystalline
coatings of dissolved oxygen is studied in the Ringer’s solution and
artificial saliva at 25°C. This was done by means of potentiodynamic
tests and surface observations. It was shown that dissolved oxygen has
no influence on passivity, oxidation of the coating and selective
dissolution of cobalt. By contrast, dissolved oxygen affects corrosion.
General corrosion was observed in the Ringer’s solution whereas pitting
corrosion was found in artificial saliva.

Abstrakt

In this work, three ceramic composite coatings Al2O3-3TiO2 C,
Al2O3-13TiO2 C, and Al2O3-13TiO2 N were plasma sprayed on steel
substrates. They were deposited with two conventional powders differing
the volume fraction of TiO2 and nanostructured powder. The mechanical
and tribological properties of the coatings were investigated and
compared. The increase in TiO2 content from 3 wt.% to 13 wt.% in the
conventional feedstock improved the mechanical properties and abrasion
resistance of coatings. However, the size of the used powder grains had
a much stronger influence on the properties of deposited coatings than
the content of the titania phase. The Al2O3-13TiO2 coating obtained from
nanostructured powder revealed significantly better properties than that
plasma sprayed using conventional powder, i.e. 22% higher microhardness,
19% lower friction coefficient, and over twice as good abrasive wear
resistance. In turn, the Al2O3-13TiO2 conventional coating showed an
increase in microhardness and abrasive wear resistance, 36% and 43%,
respectively, and 6% higher coefficient of friction compared to the
Al2O3-3TiO2 conventional coating.

Abstrakt

Nanoparticles are very fascinating area of science not only due to their
unique properties but also possibility of producing new more complex
materials, which may find an application in modern chemistry,
engineering and medicine. In process of nanoparticles formation very
important aspect is a rate of individual stage i.e. reduction,
nucleation and autocatalytic growth, because this knowledge allows for
proper materials design, morphology manipulation, stability. The last
one aspect can be realized using proper electrostatic, steric and
electrosteric stabilization. However until now nobody reports and
measures kinetic rates of all stages during process of particles
formation in the presence of steric stabilizers. Thus, the main
contribution of this paper is determination of individual rate constants
for nanoparticles formation in the presence of steric stabilizers and
their comparison to the system without stabilizer. For this purpose, an
aqueous solution of Au(III) and Pt(IV) ions were mixed with steric
stabilizers like PVA and PVP, and reduced using L-ascorbic acid as a
mild and sodium borohydride as a strong reductant. As a results stable
nanoparticles were formed and process of their formation was registered
spectrophotometrically. From obtained kinetic curves the values of
observed rate constants for reduction metal ions, slow nucleation and
fast autocatalytic growth were determined using Watzky-Finke model. It
was found that the addition of polymer affects the rate of the
individual stages. The addition of steric stabilizers to gold ions
reduced with L-ascorbic acid causes that the process of nucleation and
autocatalytic growth slows down and the value of observed rate constants
for nucleation changes from 3.79·10–3 (without polymer) to 7.15·10–5s–1
(with PVA) and for growth changes from 1.15·103 (without polymer) to
0.48·102s–1M–1 (with PVA). However, the rate of the reduction reaction
of Au(III) ions is practically unchanged. In case of using strong
reductant the addition of polymer effects on the shape of kinetic curve
for reduction of Au(III) and it suggests that mechanism is changed. In
case of Pt(IV) ions reduction with L-ascorbic acid, the process speeds
up a little when PVA was added. Determined values of observed rate
constants for nucleation and growth platinum nanoparticles decrease
twice comparing to the system without polymer. The reduction of Pt(IV)
ions with sodium borohydride accelerates when PVP was added and slows
down when PVA was used. Moreover, the size of obtained colloidal gold
and platinum was also analysed using DLS method. Obtained results (rate
constants) may be useful in the process of nanomaterials synthesis, in
particular in microflow.

Abstrakt

The presented results of investigations are part of a larger study
focused on the optimization of the flow and mixing of liquid steel in
the industrial tundish of continuous casting machine. The numerical
simulations were carried out concern the analysis of hydrodynamic
conditions of liquid steel flow in a tundish operating in one of the
national steelworks. Numerical simulations were performed using the
commercial code ANSYS Fluent. The research concerns two different speeds
of steel casting. In real conditions, these speeds are the most commonly
used in the technological process when casting two different groups of
steel. As a result of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) calculations,
predicted spatial distributions of velocity and liquid steel turbulence
fields and residence time distribution (RTD) curves were obtained. The
volume fractions of different flows occurring in the tundish were also
calculated. The results of the research allowed a detailed analysis of
the influence of casting speed on the formation of hydrodynamic
conditions prevailing in the reactor.

Abstrakt

In this work, the authors proposed a modification of the working space
one-strand tundish adapted for slab casting process. Numerical
simulations of liquid steel flow in the considered flow reactor were
performed. The tundish is equipped with a dam with a multi-hole filter.
Two variants of the filter hole arrangement were tested and their effect
on the liquid steel flow hydrodynamic structure in the tundish was
examined. The computer calculations results were verified by performing
experiments on the water model. The result of numerical and physical
simulations an RTD (Residence Time Distribution) type F curve was
generated, which define the transition zone between the cast steel
grades during the sequential casting process. The results of the
researches showed that the modification of a dam with a multi-hole
filter affects on the formation of the liquid steel flow hydrodynamic
structure and the transition zone. Furthermore, examinations of the
liquid steel refining ability in the considered tundish were carried
out. The influence of the filter holes arrangement on the non-metallic
inclusions flotation process to the slag phase and liquid steel
filtration processes was checked. Numerical simulations were performed
in the Ansys-Fluent computer program.

Abstrakt

Determining the boundary conditions of heat transfer in steel
manufacturing is a very important issue. The heat transfer effect during
contact of two solid bodies occurs in the continuous casting steel
process. The temperature fields of solids taking part in heat transfer
are described by the Fourier equation. The boundary conditions of heat
transfer must be determined to get an accurate solution to the heat
conduction equation. The heat flux between the tool and the object
processed depends mainly on temperature, pressure and time. It is very
difficult and complicated to accomplish direct identification and
determination of the boundary conditions in this process. The solution
to this problem may be the construction of a process model, performing
measurements at a test stand, and using numerical methods. The proposed
model must be verified on the basis of parameters which can easily be
measured in industrial processes. One of them is temperature, which may
be used in inverse methods to determine the heat transfer coefficient.
This work presents the methodology for determining the heat flux between
two solid bodies staying in contact. It consists of two stages – the
experiment and the numerical computation. The problem was solved by
using the finite element method (FEM) and a numerical program developed
at AGH University of Science and Technology in Krakow. The findings of
the conducted research are relationships describing the value of the
heat flux versus the contact time and surface temperature.

Abstrakt

The article reports the results of a comparative analysis made for three
novel unconventional gear wheel forging processes based on the authors’
patented [5,6,21] plastic forming methods developed chiefly for the
purposes of extruding hollow products as well as valves and pins. These
processes are distinguished by the fact that part of the tooling
elements which are normally fixed during conventional forging are
purposefully set in motion. This is intended to change the conditions of
friction at the metal-tool contact surface and to induce additional
thermal effects due to the transformation of the plastic deformation
energy into thermal energy and, as a consequence, to improve the plastic
flow of metal and to reduce the force parameters of the process.

Abstrakt

In this article the structural and mechanical properties of grain
refinement of Cu-Sn alloys with tin content of 10%, 15% and 20% using
the KOBO method have been presented. The direct extrusion by KOBO (name
from the combination of the first two letters of the names of its
inventors – A. Korbel and W. Bochniak) method employs, during the course
of the whole process, a phenomenon of permanent change of strain travel,
realized by a periodical, two-sided, plastic metal torsion. Moreover the
aim of this work was to study corrosion resistance. The microstructure
investigations were performed using an optical microscope Olimpus GX71,
a scanning electron microscope (SEM) and a scanning transmission
electron microscope (STEM). The mechanical properties were determined
with INSTRON 4505/5500 machine. Corrosion tests were performed using
«Autolab» set – potentiostat/galvanostat from EcoChemie B.V. with GPES
software ver. 4.9. The obtained results showed possibility of KOBO
deformation of Cu-Sn casting alloys. KOBO processing contributed to the
refinement of grains and improved mechanical properties of the alloys.
The addition of tin significantly improved the hardness. Meanwhile, with
the increase of tin content the tensile strength and yield strength of
alloys decrease gradually. Ductility is controlled by eutectoid
composition and especially δ phase, because they initiate nucleation of
void at the particle/matrix interface. No significant differences in the
corrosion resistance between cast and KOBO processed materials were
found.

Abstrakt

A series of nanocomposite graphene/CoFe2O4 and graphene/NiFe2O4 hybrid
materials was synthesized via facile, one-pot solvothermal route. The
materials were obtained using two pressure methods: synthesis in the
autoclave and synthesis in the microwave solvothermal reactor. The use
of a microwave reactor enabled to significantly shorten the synthesis
time up to 15 min. All the syntheses were carried out in a solution of
ethanol. The effect of processing conditions and composite composition
on the physicochemical properties and electric conductivity was studied.
The specific surface area, density, morphology, phase composition,
thermal properties and electric conductivity of the obtained composites
were investigated. The results of studies of composites obtained in an
autoclave and in a microwave reactor were compared.

Abstrakt

The article presents the results of research concerning AlCu4MgSi alloy
ingots produced using horizontal continuous casting process under
variable conditions of casting speed and cooling liquid flow through the
crystallizer. The mechanical properties and structure of the obtained
ingots were correlated with the process parameters. On the basis of the
obtained results, it has been shown that depending on the cooling rate
and the intensity of convection during solidification, significant
differences in the mechanical properties and structure and of the ingots
can occur. The research has shown that, as the casting speed and the
flow rate of the cooling liquid increase, the hardness of the test
samples decreases, while their elongation increases, which is related to
the increase of the average grain size. Also, the morphology of the
intermetallic phases precipitations lattice, as well as the centerline
porosity and dendrite expansion, significantly affect the tensile
strength and fracture mechanism of the tested ingots.

Abstrakt

In this paper, the deviation from eutectic composition in boundary layer
for eutectic growth is studied by phase-field method. According to a
series of artificial phase diagram, the lamellar eutectic growth of
these alloy is simulated during directional solidification. At steady
state, average growth velocity of eutectic lamella is equal to the
pulling velocity. With the increasing of the liquidus slope of β phase,
the average composition in boundary layer would deviate from eutectic
composition and the deviation increases. The constitutional undercooling
difference between both solid phases caused by the deviation increases
with the increasing of the deviation. The β phase would develop a
depression under the influence of the deviation.

Abstrakt

In contemporary high-pressure die casting foundries, the mastery of each
sequence in the production cycle is more and more important. In the
paper, an example of virtual analysis of gearbox casting from Al alloy
will be presented. It includes a large variety of parameters, as
follows: choosing of appropriate foundry technology, calculation of
computer simulation of casting process which takes into account the
filling process of cold chamber and filling of cavity, model description
of three phases in high-pressure die casting, flow of molten metal,
solidification, formation of stress and deformations. Additionally, the
optimization of cooling and heating systems will be compared with
calculated volume defects, dimensions of castings and their deformations
with experimentally obtained values.

Abstrakt

Many wire products (e.g. nets) are made from galvanized material. The
hot dip galvanizing process gives the possibility of applying in a
respectively thick coat of zinc (also depending on the time of staying
wires in the bath) which provides the protection of the product against
corrosion. In the available literature there were no research concerned
with the influence of hot dip galvanizing process on the mechanical
properties TRIP structure steel wires. Therefore, an experiment was
carried out in laboratory conditions allowing the determination of the
influence of hot dip galvanizing process parameters on the mechanical
properties (tensile strength UST and yield strength YS) of TRIP steel
wires as well as on the amount of retained austenite in their structure.
It has been stated that the hot galvanizing process of TRIP steel wires
influences, proportionally to the time of staying wires in zinc bath, on
their plastic properties (the increase in yield strength YS) as well as
the decrease in the amount of retained austenite in their structure.
Such a phenomenon can be caused by stresses responsible for rapid
heating of the wire put in the zinc bath in temperature of 450°C and by
the strengthening of the materials resulting from the transformation of
retained austenite.

Abstrakt

The results are based on two experimental high-manganese
X98MnAlSiNbTi24-11 and X105MnAlSi24-11 steels subjected to
thermo-mechanical treatment by hot-rolling on a semi-industrial
processing line. The paper presents the results of diffraction and
structural studies using scanning and transmission electron microscopy
showing the role of Nb and Ti micro-additives in shaping high strength
properties of high-manganese austenitic-ferritic steels with complex
carbides. The performed investigations of two experimental steels allow
to explain how the change cooling conditions after thermo-mechanical
treatment of the analysed steels affects the change of their
microstructure and mechanical properties. The obtained results allow
assessing the impact of both the chemical composition and the applied
thermo-mechanical treatment technology on the structural effects of
strengthening of the newly developed steels.

Abstrakt

This paper presents results obtained from a laboratory investigation
conducted on material from a pressure vessel after longterm operation in
the oil refinery industry. The tested material contained structural
defects which arose from improper heat treatment during steel plate
manufacturing. Complex tensile tests with acoustic emission signal
recording were conducted on both notched and unnotched specimens. The
detailed analysis of different acoustic emission criteria allowed as to
detect each stage of plastic deformation and microstructural damage
processes after a long-term operation, and unused carbon steels during
quasi-static axial tension testing. The acoustic emission activity,
generated in the typical stages of material deformation, was correlated
by microscopy observations during the tensile test. The results are to
be used as the basis for new algorithms for the assessment of the
structural condition of in-service pressure equipment.

Abstrakt

The paper includes the TG-DTG thermogravimetric air-testing of a
cellulose mixture modified with the additives of expanded vermiculite or
expanded perlite. A thermal degradation test was carried out at 1000°C
with a simultaneous qualitative analysis of the emitted gases. During
the thermal degradation process, the thermal effects were also measured.
The research results indicate that expanded vermiculite or expanded
perlite do not emit toxic gases during thermal degradation. The
cellulose mixture modification, with the additives of expanded
vermiculite or perlite, does not result in the creation of new gaseous
compounds in the process of thermal degradation. A s investigated below,
the mixtures tested in this article find application in gating systems
for supplying liquid metal in no-bake moulds. Such cellulose-based
material solutions shall allow the foundry industry to introduce less
gas vaporising technologies within the entire casting production process.

Abstrakt

In this paper small punch test (SPT) which is one of miniaturized
samples technique, was employed to characterize the mechanical
properties of carbon steel P110. The tests were carried out in the range
of –175°C to RT. Results obtained for SPT were compared to those
calculated for tensile and Charpy impact test. Based on tensile and SPT
parameters numerical model was prepared. 8 mm in diameter and 0.8 mm in
height (t) discs with and without notch were employed in this research.
The specimens had different depth notch (a) in the range of 0.1 to 0.4
mm. It was estimated that α factor for comparison of Tsp and DBTT for
carbon steel P110 is 0.55 and the linear relation is DBTT = 0.55TSPT.
The numerical model fit with force – deflection curve of SPT. If the
factor of notch depth and samples thickness is higher than 0.3 the
fracture mode is transformed from ductile to brittle at –150°C.

Abstrakt

The paper presents the results of studies of hybrid composite layers
Ni/Al2O3/Cgraphite produced by the electrodeposition method. Three
variants of hybrid composite layers were prepared in electrolyte
solutions with the same amounts of each dispersion phases which were
equal to 0.25; 0.50 and 0.75 g/dm3. The structure of Ni/Al2O3/Cgraphite
layers as well as the Al2O3 and graphite powders, which were used as
dispersion phases was investigated. The results of morphology and
surface topography of produced layers are presented. The modulus of
elasticity and microhardness of the material of produced layers were
determined by DSI method. Tribological and corrosion resistance tests of
produced layers were carried out. Realized studies have shown that the
material of the produced layers is characterized by a nanocrystalline
structure. Incorporation of dispersion phases into the nickiel matrix
increases the degree of surface development of layers.
Ni/Al2O3/Cgraphite layers are characterized by high hardness and
abrasion resistance by friction, furthermore, they provide good
corrosion protection for the substrate material.

Abstrakt

Modified Bohm’s formalism was applied to solve the problem of abstruse
layer depth profiles measured by the Auger electron spectroscopy
technique in real physical systems. The desorbed carbon/passive layer on
an NiTi substrate and the adsorbed oxygen/ surface of an NiTi alloy were
studied. It was shown that the abstruse layer profiles can be converted
to real layer structures using the modified Bohm’s theory, where the
quantum potential is due to the Auger electron effect. It is also
pointed out that the stationary probability density predicts the
multilayer structures of the abstruse depth profiles that are caused by
the carbon desorption and oxygen adsorption processes. The criterion for
a kind of break or “cut” between the physical and unphysical multilayer
systems was found. We conclude with the statement that the physics can
also be characterised by the abstruse measurement and modified Bohm’s
formalism.

Abstrakt

The knowledge whether and how chemical species react with tissues is
important because of protection against harmful factors, diagnose of
dermatological diseases, validation of dermatological procedures as well
as effectiveness of topical therapies. In presented work the effects of
chemical agents on plates of human fingernails were studied using Atomic
Force Microscopy and Scanning Electron Microscopy. Apart from that,
mapping of the elastic properties of the nails was also carried out. To
obtain reliable measures of spatial evolution of the surface variations,
recorded images were analyzed in terms of scaling invariance brought by
fractal geometry, instead of common though not unique statistical
measures.

Abstrakt

Effects of charge composition on microstructure, mechanical and fatigue
properties of nodular cast irons have been studied. For experiments,
five melts of nodular cast iron were used – three types of unalloyed
nodular cast irons (with different ratio of steel and pig iron in a
charge and different additives for regulation of the chemical
composition) and two types of alloyed nodular cast irons (SiMo- and
SiCu- nodular cast iron). The microstructure of the specimens was
evaluated according to a norm and by automatic image analysis. The
mechanical properties were investigated by the tensile test, impact
bending test and Brinell hardness test. The fatigue tests were carried
out at sinusoidal cyclic push-pull loading at ambient temperature. The
best mechanical properties were reached in the nodular cast iron alloyed
by Si and Cu, what is related to its microstructure.

Abstrakt

The paper presents investigations of microstructure of varistors of
damaged surge arrester counters. A similar ZnO varistor, not subjected
before to operation, was a point of reference in this research. The
results of investigations of the ZnO varistors show an untypical phase
composition of their material, which was characterized by unsatisfying
homogeneity and cohesion. The degradation processes of varistor material
in the subsequent stages were recognized and described. A harmful impact
of humidity inside the untight surge arrester counter on its operation
and its ZnO varistors was proved. Some conclusions being the result of
the operation checking of surge arrester counters were presented too.

Abstrakt

A method of using the electric charge in a capacitor was applied for the
manufacture of thermocouple micro-joints. The motivation for the study
was the need to produce a stable welded connection without affecting the
geometry of the substrate, which was a thin sheet of Inconel 625 alloy
(UNS designation N06625). Within the framework of the research work, a
suitable workstation for micro-joints elaboration was built and welding
experiments were performed using different electric charges. Studies
carried out within the framework of the present work have shown that
joints based on Inconel 625 alloy and platinum have the best application
properties in the range of small-scale temperature measurements. They
can be used, e.g., for monitoring the temperature distribution on the
inner surfaces of electric motor casings. An undeniable advantage is in
this case the high thermal resistance of both materials used to produce
the joint, i.e. the Inconel 625 alloy and platinum. This allows them to
be used at high temperatures under atmospheric conditions.

Abstrakt

This paper analyses the heat treatment of the hot-dip zinc coating
deposited on both cast iron and steel. The aim of research is to
increase coating hardness and wear resistance without decreasing its
anticorrosion properties. Hot-dip zinc coating was deposited in
industrial conditions (acc. PN-EN ISO 10684) on disc shape samples and
bolts M12x60. The achieved results were assessed on the basis of
microscopic observation (with the use of an optical and scanning
microscope), EDS (point and linear) analysis and micro-hardness
measurements. It was discovered that the heat treatment of zinc coating
results in an increase in hardness which is caused by the corresponding
changes in microstructure.

Abstrakt

The effect of cationic, anionic and nonionic surface active additives,
organic compounds and polymers on the electrodeposition of Zn-Mo
coatings on steel substrate and detailed characterization in chosen
optimal conditions was studied. The influence of polyethylene glycol
(PEG) various concentration, sodium dodecyl sulphate (SDS), triton
X-100, d-sorbitol, cetyl trimethyl ammonium bromide (CTAB), thiourea and
disodium ethylenediaminetetraacetate (EDTA) on the electrodeposition
process was examined. The composition of deposits was defined by
wavelength dispersive X-ray fluorescence spectrometry (WDXRF). Results
has shown that the current efficiency of the electrodeposition of Zn-Mo
coatings is 71.4%, 70.7%, 66.7% for 1.5 g/dm3 PEG 20000, 0.1 g/dm3
Triton X-100 and 0.75 M D-sorbitol respectively. The surface topography
and roughness of selected coatings on steel was investigated by atomic
force microscopy (AFM). The attendance of D-sorbitol of 0.75 M in the
solution cause clear reduction of grain size and the value of roughness
parameter (Ra) in relation to SDS, PEG, Triton X-100 and the sample
prepared without the additives. The morphology of electrodeposited
layers was studied by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The addition
of selected additives to the electrolytic bath results in the formation
of smoother, brighter and more compact Zn-Mo coatings in comparison to
layers obtained from similar electrolytes but without the addition of
surfactants. The optimal concentration of the most effective additives
such as PEG 20000, Triton X-100 and D-sorbitol is 1.5 g/dm3, 0.1 g/dm3,
0.75 M respectively.

Abstrakt

The five-layer Aurivillius type structures with the general chemical
formula Bi5Fe2-xMnxTi3O18, where x = 0, 0.6, 1.2 have been synthesized
and tested. The SEM studies showed a significant increase in grain size
in the manganese-modified Aurivillius type ceramic material (for x =
1.2). The increase in the amount of manganese ions (Mn3+) affects the
decrease in the temperature at which the relaxation processes take
place. Namely from 525 K (1 kHz) and 725 K (1 MHz) for BFT sample (x =
0) to 355 K (1 kHz) and 565 K (1 MHz) for BFM12T sample (x = 1.2). Using
the Arrhenius’s law and the Vogel-Fulcher’s relationship the activation
energy (Ea) and the relaxation time have been calculated. The value of
Ea increases with the increase of the Mn amount from 0.737 eV (for x =
0) to 0.915 eV (for x = 1.2).

Abstrakt

The paper presents the results of research on the influence of sintering
temperature on microstructure, DC electrical conductivity, dielectric,
ferroelectric and magnetic properties of PbFe1/2Nb1/2O3 ceramics doped
by Li in the amount of 5.0% wt., in the abbreviation PLiFN. The ceramic
samples of the PLiFN material were obtained by the two-stage synthesis –
columbite method and sintered by free sintering methods. Introduction to
the basic PbFe1/2Nb1/2O3 composition of the lithium admixture to
decrease the electrical conductivity and reduction of dielectric loss.
The tests have shown that the increase in sintering temperature orders
the PLiFN ceramic microstructure, which has a positive effect on its
electrophysical properties. At room temperature, the PLiFN ceramic
samples show both ferroelectric and ferromagnetic properties.
Considering the functional parameters of the obtained ceramic samples,
the optimal technological conditions are 1100°C/2 h.

Abstrakt

The objective of the research in this work was the modification of
structure of carbide-type chromized layers, by the combination of
diffusion chromizing with subsequent PVD treatment, consisting of
chromium nitride deposition, carried out to improve their tribological
properties. As a result, hybrid layers on the surface of tool steel were
obtained. For comparison, the properties of single chromized carbide
layers obtained in a diffusion chromizing process were tested.
Investigations of layer microstructure, their mechanical properties,
surface topography, adhesion of layers to the steel substrate, as well
as tribological properties were conducted. The layer microstructure was
characterized by X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy.
Topography of the layer surface was studied by an optical profilometer.
The scratch test for investigations of layers adhesion to the steel
substrate was used. Testing of tribological properties (linear wear) of
the layers was performed by the three-cylinder-cone method. It was
shown, that hybrid layers are characterized by a significantly smaller
surface roughness than that of chromized carbide layers and their wear
resistance improved almost twice with respect to carbide layers.

Abstrakt

A series of copper oxide thin films were synthesized through direct
current magnetron sputtering on glass and silicon substrates with
various process parameters. Initially, optical microscopy images and
their histograms were analyzed to determine the optical quality of the
obtained layers and then histograms were created using Image Histogram
Generator software. Next, the morphology, and cross-section and layer
composition of the samples were evaluated. Finally, the transmission
spectra of the thin films were recorded. Transmittance and reflection
spectra of the UV–vis analysis were utilized to calculate the optical
band gap, the extinction coefficient, and the absorption coefficient of
the oxidized layers. Samples showed low transmittance (up to 40%) in the
region of 400 to 1000 nm. The mean absorption coefficient varied from ~3
· 105 to ~6 · 105 1/cm and from ~2 · 105 to ~4 · 105 1/cm in the region
of 2 eV to 3.5 eV. The extinction coefficient ranged from 0 to 0.11 in
the region from 300 to 3000 nm. Reflectance of the samples was ~20% in
the region of 1000 to 2500 nm and ranged from 20%-50% in the region of
1000 to 3000 nm. We verified the process parameters of the Cu2O
structure to improve the quality as a buffer layer. On the basis of this
preliminary analysis, we propose the most promising and future-oriented
solutions in photovoltaic applications.

Abstrakt

Analytical transmission electron microscopy has been applied to
characterize the microstructure, phase and chemical composition of the
Ag–Al wear track throughout its thickness down to the atomic level.
Microscopy findings have been correlated with Ag–Al film tribological
properties to understand the effect of the hexagonal solid solution
phase on the tribological properties of this film. Ag–25Al (at.%) films
have been produced by simultaneous magnetron sputtering of components in
Ar atmosphere under 1 mTorr pressure and subjected to pin-on-disc
tribological tests. It has been shown that hcp phase with (001) planes
aligned parallel to the film surface dominates both in as-deposited and
in tribofilm areas of the Ag–Al alloy film. Possible mechanisms of
reduced friction in easily oxidized Ag–Al system are discussed and the
mechanism based on readily shearing basal planes of the hcp phase is
considered as the most probable one.

Abstrakt

To figure out the reason causing ladle nozzle clogging during CC
(continuous casting) of a non-oriented electrical steel with high
silicon (or HNO for short) and get a method to address it, this paper
studied the theoretical calculation of flow rates during CC, the
inclusions around the slide gate where ladle nozzle clogging happened,
and Ca-treatment at the end of RH for decreasing ladle clogging of the
electrical steel both theoretically and practically. The results showed
that: The bigger diameter of a nozzle or less nozzle clogging can
guarantee an enough flow rate for reaching the target casting speed.
Ladle nozzle clogging can be predicted by comparing the percentage of
slide gate opening. Al2O3 and its composite inclusions were the main
reason that caused the ladle nozzle clogging of the electrical steel.
Higher [Al] or TO will increase the amount of Pure Ca wires for
Ca-treatment. The results of the verification tests fit the
thermodynamic calculation, and Ca-treatment using pure Ca wires could
prevent ladle nozzles from clogging without affecting the magnetic
properties of the electrical steel.

Abstrakt

Effects of solution treatment on room temperature mechanical properties
were studied in cast AZ91 (Mg-9%Al-1%Zn-0.2%Mn) and AZ91-0.5%Ca alloys.
In as-cast state, the Ca addition contributed to the suppression of
discontinuous β phase precipitation and the formation of Al2Ca phase.
After solution treatment, the AZ91 alloy had only a small amount of
Al8Mn5 particles, while β and Al2Ca phases were still present in the
Ca-containing alloy. In as-cast state, the AZ91-0.5%Ca alloy showed
better yield strength and hardness than the AZ91 alloy. The solution
treatment increased the elongation in both alloys, which eventually led
to the increase in ultimate tensile strength. The solution treatment
resulted in a marked decrease in yield strength and hardness in the AZ91
alloy, whereas the decrements in those values were relatively negligible
in the Ca-containing alloy due to the residual phases and solution
hardening effect of Ca.

Abstrakt

Temperature gradient zone melting (TGZM) method was used to obtain bulk
Si continuously for the efficient separation and purification of primary
Si from the Si-Al alloy in this work. The effects of alloy thickness,
temperature gradient and holding time in TGZM purification technology
were investigated. Finally, the continuous growth of bulk Si without
eutectic inclusions was obtained. The results showed that the growth
rate of bulk Si was independent of the liquid zone thickness. When the
temperature gradient was changed from 2.48 K/mm to 3.97 K/mm, the growth
rate of bulk Si was enhanced from 7.9×10–5 mm/s to 2.47×10–4 mm/s, which
was increased by about 3 times. The bulk Si could grow continuously and
the growth rate was decreased with the increase of holding time from 1 h
to 5 h. Meanwhile, low refining temperature was beneficial to the
removal of impurities. With a precipitation temperature of 1460 K and a
temperature gradient of 2.48 K/mm, the removal rates of Fe, P and B were
99.8%, 94.0% and 63.6%, respectively.

Abstrakt

The present study addresses the utilization of induction furnace steel
slag which is an anthropogenic waste, for enhancing the mechanical
properties of a commercial aluminium alloy A356. Different weight
percentage (3wt%, 6wt%, 9wt%, and 12wt%) of steel slag particles in 1 to
10 μm size range were used as reinforcing particles in aluminium alloy
A356 matrix. The composites were prepared through stir casting
technique. The results revealed an improvement in mechanical properties
(i.e. microhardness and tensile strength) and wear resistance with an
increase in weight percentage of the steel slag particles. This research
work shows promising results for the utilization of the steel slag for
enhancing the properties of aluminium alloy A356 at no additional cost
while assisting at same time in alleviating land pollution.

Abstrakt

Sound joint of hollow-extruded 6005A-T6 aluminum alloy was achieved by
friction stir welding and its high cycle fatigue performance was mainly
investigated. As a result, the joint fatigue limit reaches 128.1 MPa
which is 55% of the joint tensile strength. The fatigue fracture mainly
occurs at the boundary between the stir zone and thermo-mechanically
affected zone due to the large difference in the grain size. This
difference is caused by the layered microstructure of the base material.
The shell pattern with parallel arcs is the typical morphology in the
fracture surface and the distance between arcs is increased with the
increase of stress level. The specimen with the fracture located in the
stir zone possesses a relatively low fatigue life.

Abstrakt

The paper discusses the results of investigations of material,
tribological and anti-corrosion properties of hybrid coatings of the
Cr/CrN type, consisting of chromium and chromium nitride, formed on the
surface of alloy tool steel by the Arc-PVD method. Investigations of the
morphology and microstructure of hybrid coatings, as well as of their
phase composition were carried out. The studies on mechanical properties
included tests on hardness and Young’s modulus using the nanoindentation
method. Tests on adhesion were conducted using the scratch-test method.
Tribological properties of the obtained coatings were evaluated by the
pin-on-disc method. Resistance to corrosion was determined by
electrochemical methods. It was shown that hybrid coatings of the Cr/CrN
type are characterized by good adhesion to the substrate and very good
tribological properties, as well as by very good resistance to corrosion
in a solution containing chlorine ions.

Abstrakt

Deep cryogenic treatment (DCT) is gaining popularity as a treatment used
to modify structures obtained during heat or thermo-chemical treatment.
The article presents the influence of DCT, carried out during heat
treatment before and after gas nitriding processes, on the formation of
gas nitrided layers on X153CrMoV12 steel. It was found that the use of
DCT between quenching and tempering performed prior to gas nitriding
processes, increases the hardness, thickness and wear resistance of the
nitrided layers. At the same time, if we apply cryogenic treatment
during post-heat treatment of nitrided layers, we also get very high
wear resistance and increased thickness of nitrided layers, in
comparison with conventional gas nitriding of X153CrMoV12 steel. In this
case, DCT significantly increases also the hardness of the core by the
transformation of retained austenite and the precipitation of fine
carbides of alloying elements.

Abstrakt

The article presents a novel method that allows measurement of thermal
conductivity that is based on Stefan-Boltzmann law. The developed method
can be used to determine thermal conductivity of ceramic investment
casting molds. The methodology for conducting thermal conductivity tests
of ceramic material samples is presented. Knowledge of the value of
thermal capacity and thermal conductivity as a function of temperature
enables computer simulations of the process of cooling and
solidification of liquid metal in a mold.

Abstrakt

The paper presents a description of the phenomena occurring on the
surface of the forging dies. A detailed analysis was made of 24
pre-forging dies due to the most intensive wear in this operation. To
compare the results, new tools were also analysed. The research
described in the study showed that the most dangerous factor for the hot
forging process analysed is thermal-mechanical fatigue, which causes
small cracks, which in turn quickly leads to the formation of a crack
network on the entire contact surface of the tool with forged material.
The second phenomenon is the tempering of the surface of the material
for a long-term temperature effect. The presence of hard iron oxides in
the form of scale from forging material is the accompanying phenomenon
that intensifies the processes of tool wear. The paper presents the
results of the analysis of the presence of residual magnetic field for
forging tools and the results of laboratory tests of wear processes of
tool steels for hot work in the presence of a magnetic field and in the
presence of scale.

Abstrakt

The present work discusses results of increased temperature on
shape-dimensional changes of a 110 type hose coupling, produced from EN
AC-AlSi11 alloy with the use of pressure die casting technology. The
castings were soaked for 3.5 h at temperatures 460°C, 475°C and 490°C.
The verification of shape-dimensional accuracy of the elements after
soaking treatment, in relation to raw casting, was carried out by
comparing the 3D models received from 3D scanning. Soaking temperature
of about 460°C-475°C results in no significant changes in the shapes and
dimensions of the castings, or surface defects in the form of blisters,
which can be seen at a temperature of 490°C.

Abstrakt

The numerical algorithm of thermal phenomena is based on the solution of
the heat conduction equations in Petrov-Galerkin’s formula using the
finite element method. In the modeling of phase transformation in the
solid state, the models based on the diagrams of continuous heating and
continuous cooling (CHT and CCT). In the modeling of mechanical
phenomena, equations of equilibrium and constitutive relationships were
adopted in the rate form. It was assumed that the hardened material is
elastic-plastic, and the plasticizing can be characterized by isotropic,
kinematic or mixed strengthening. In the model of mechanical phenomena
besides thermal, plastic and structural strains, the transformations
plasticity was taken into account. Thermo-physical size occurring in the
constitutive relationship, such as Young’s modulus and tangential
modulus, while yield point depend on temperature and phase composition
of the material. The modified Leblond model was used to determine
transformation plasticity. This model was supplemented by an algorithm
of modified plane strain state, advantageous in application to the
modeling of mechanical phenomena in slender objects. The problem of
thermoelasticity and plasticity was solved by the FEM. In order to
evaluate the quality and usefulness of the presented numerical models,
numerical analysis of temperature fields, phase fractions, stresses and
strains was performed, i.e. the basic phenomena accompanying surface
layer of progressive-hardening with a movable heat source of slender
elements made of tool steel for cold work.

Abstrakt

Aluminum profiles play an important role in civil engineering (facades,
walls with windows) as well as in mechanical engineering (production
lines, constructions of 3D printers and plotters). To ensure quick
assembly, disassembly or changed the dimensions of constructions it is
not possible to use such methods as welding, adhesive or riveting
joints. The solution may be to use the so-called “popular lock”. It is a
mechanism, the closure of which is caused by tightening of the conical
screw, joining the “T” profile in the node. In order to properly design
using the presented type of connection, it is necessary to know its
strength and stiffness both in simple and complex loads states, also
including imperfections. In the literature there is no information about
the operation of the construction node with the so-called “popular
lock”. The paper presents the results of experimental tests for
connections subjected to uniaxial tensile test, paying special attention
to the defects that may appear during the assembly. In the next step, a
3D solid connection model was created. Numerical simulations were
performed in the Abaqus / Explicite program for both uniaxial tensile
test and bending tests in two planes. Limit values of loads above which
there is a plastic deformation of the material were determined.
Determination of stiffness and strength of a single node allowed to make
a simplified connector model. Using the numerical model, the analysis
was performed taking into account the influence of imperfections on the
work of the entire connection.

Abstrakt

Casting industry has been enriched with the processes of mechanization
and automation in production. They offer both better working standards,
faster and more accurate production, but also have begun to generate new
opportunities for new foundry defects. This work discusses the
disadvantages of processes that can occur, to a limited extend, in the
technologies associated with mould assembly and during the initial
stages of pouring. These defects will be described in detail in the
further part of the paper and are mainly related to the quality of
foundry cores, therefore the discussion of these issues will mainly
concern core moulding sands. Four different types of moulding mixtures
were used in the research, representing the most popular chemically
bonded moulding sands used in foundry practise. The main focus of this
article is the analysis of the influence of the binder type on
mechanical and thermal deformation in moulding sands.

Abstrakt

Internal casting defects that are detected by radiography may also be
detected by ultrasonic method. Ultrasonic testing allows investigation
of the cross-sectional area of a casting, it is considered to be a
volumetric inspection method. The high frequency acoustic energy travels
through the casting until it hits the opposite surface or an interface
or defect. The interface or defect reflects portions of the energy,
which are collected in a receiving unit and displayed for the analyst to
view. The pattern of the energy deflection can indicate internal defect.
Ultrasonic casting testing is very complicated in practice. The
complications are mainly due to the coarse-grain structure of the
casting that causes a high ultrasound attenuation. High attenuation then
makes it impossible to test the entire volume of material. This article
is focused on measurement of attenuation, the effect of probe frequency
on attenuation and testing results.

Abstrakt

The ablation casting technology consists in pouring castings in
single-use moulds made from the mixture of sand and watersoluble binder.
After pouring the mould with liquid metal, while the casting is still
solidifying, the mould destruction (washing out, erosion) takes place
using a stream of cooling medium, which in this case is water. The
following paper focuses on the selection of moulding sands with hydrated
sodium silicate technologies for moulds devoted to the ablation casting
of aluminum alloys. It has been proposed to use different types of
moulding sands with a water-soluble binder, which is hydrated sodium
silicate. The authors showed that the best kind of moulding sands for
moulds for Al alloy casting will be moulding sands hardened with
physical factors – through dehydration. The use of microwave hardened
moulding sands and moulding sands made in hot-box technology has been
proposed. The tests were carried out on moulding sands with different
types of modified binder and various inorganic additives. The paper
compares viscosity of different binders used in the research and thermal
degradation of moulding sands with tested binders. The paper analyzes
the influence of hardening time periods on bending strength of moulding
sands with hydrated sodium silicate prepared in hot-box technology. The
analysis of literature data and own research have shown that molding
sand with hydrated sodium silicate hardened by dehydration is
characterized by sufficient strength properties for the ablation foundry
of Al alloys.

Abstrakt

The paper describes the influence of graphite shape, size and amount to
electrical properties of different cast irons. Experiments of electrical
resistivity measurements were conducted during solidification of four
different melts in different time intervals from melt treatment by
inoculation and nodularization. Metallographic analyses were made in
order to determine the shape, size, distribution and amount of graphite
and correlate results with electrical resistivity measurements. It was
found out that nodular graphite is giving the lowest electrical
resistivity and is decreased during solidification. Electrical
resistivity of lamellar cast iron is increased during solidification
since lamellas interrupt metal matrix severely There is no significant
difference in resistivity of vermicular cast iron from nodular cast
iron. Smaller size of graphite and lower amount of graphite and higher
amount of metal matrix also decrease resistivity.

Abstrakt

The combination of the austempered ductile iron mechanical properties
strongly depend on the parameters used on the austempering cycle. On
this study, the influence of austempering time and austenitizing
temperature on the properties of a ductile iron were evaluated. A
metallic bath of Zamak at 380°C was used as an austempering mean. A set
of ductile iron blocks were austenitized at 900°C for 90 minutes and
submitted to different austempering times in order to determine the best
combination of microstructural and mechanical properties. After the
definition of the time of austempering, the reduction of the
austenitizing temperature was evaluated. The best combination of
properties was obtained with austenitizing at 860°C and austempering
during 60 minutes.

Abstrakt

The purpose of the present paper was to investigate the effect of shot
peening on the condition of the surface layer and abrasion resistance of
specimens made of Ti-6Al-4V titanium alloy produced by Direct Metal
Laser Sintering (DMLS) process. The specimens have been produced by
means of EOSINT M280 system dedicated for laser sintering of metal
powders and their surfaces have been subjected to the shot peening
process under three different working pressures (0.2, 0.3 and 0.4 MPa)
and by means of three different media i.e. CrNi steel shot, crushed nut
shells and ceramic balls. The specimens have been subjected to
profilometric analysis, to SEM examinations, microhardness tests and to
tribological tests on ball-on-disc stand in Ringer fluid environment.
The general results of all tests indicate to favourable effect of shot
peening process on the hardness and tribological performance of titanium
alloy.

Abstrakt

This work presents a numerical simulation of aviation structure joined
by friction stir welding, FSW, process. The numerical simulation of
aviation structure joined by FSW was created. The simulation uses
thermomechanical coupled formulation. Th model required creation of
finite elements representing sheets, stiffeners and welds, definition of
material models and boundary conditions. The thermal model took into
account heat conduction and convection assigned to appropriate elements
of the structure. Time functions were applied to the description of a
heat source movement. The numerical model included the stage of welding
and the stage of releasing clamps. The output of the simulation are
residual stresses and deformations occurring in the panel. Parameters of
the global model (the panel model) were selected based on the local
model (the single joint model), the experimental verification of the
local model using the single joint and the geometry of the panel joints.

Abstrakt

The aim of the study was to analyse mechanical properties and
microstructure of joints obtained using friction stir welding (FSW)
technology. The focus of the study was on overlap linear FSW joints made
of 1.4541 DIN 17441 steel sheets with thickness of 1.2 mm. Tools used
during friction stir welding of steel joints were made of W-Re alloy.
The joints were subjected to visual inspection and their load bearing
capacity was evaluated by means of the tensile strength test with
analysis of joint breaking mechanism. Furthermore, the joints were also
tested during metallographic examinations. The analysis performed in the
study revealed that all the samples of the FSW joints were broken
outside the joint area in the base material of the upper sheet metal,
which confirms its high tensile strength. Mean load capacity of the
joints was 15.8 kN. Macroscopic and microscopic examinations of the
joints did not reveal significant defects on the joint surface and in
the cross-sections.

Abstrakt

The paper presents a multi-scale mathematical model dedicated to a
comprehensive simulation of resistance heating combined with the melting
and controlled cooling of steel samples. Experiments in order to verify
the formulated numerical model were performed using a Gleeble 3800
thermo-mechanical simulator. The model for the macro scale was based
upon the solution of Fourier-Kirchhoff equation as regards predicting
the distribution of temperature fields within the volume of the sample.
The macro scale solution is complemented by a functional model
generating voluminal heat sources, resulting from the electric current
flowing through the sample. The model for the micro-scale, concerning
the grain growth simulation, is based upon the probabilistic Monte Carlo
algorithm, and on the minimization of the system energy. The model takes
into account the forming mushy zone, where grains degrade at the melting
stage – it is a unique feature of the micro-solution. The solution
domains are coupled by the interpolation of node temperatures of the
finite element mesh (the macro model) onto the Monte Carlo cells (micro
model). The paper is complemented with examples of resistance heating
results and macro- and micro-structural tests, along with test
computations concerning the estimation of the range of zones with
diverse dynamics of grain growth.

Abstrakt

An analysis of the effect of drawing speed on the formation of a zinc
coating in the multi-stage fine steel wire drawing process has been
carried out in the article. Pre-hardened 2.2 mm-diameter material was
drawn into 1.00 mm-diameter wire in 6 draws on a multi-stage drawing
machine. The drawing process was carried out at a drawing speed of 5,
10, 15, 20 and 20 m/s, respectively. Mechanical tests were tests were
performed for the final wires to determine their yield strength,
ultimate tensile strength, uniform and total elongation and reduction in
area. The thickness of the zinc coating on the wire surface was
determined by the gravimetric method and based on metallographic
examination. The use of electron scanning microscopy, on the other hand,
enabled the identification of individual phases in the zinc coating. The
above investigations were supplemented with corrosion testing of 1.00
mm-diameter wires. It has been demonstrated that drawing speed
significantly influences not only the thickness of the zinc coating on
the drawn wire surface, buts also its morphology and corrosion
resistance.

Abstrakt

The subject of the work is the analysis of thermomechanical bending
process of a thin-walled tube made of X5CrNi18-10 stainless steel. The
deformation is produced at elevated temperature generated with a laser
beam in a specially designed experimental setup. The tube bending
process consists of local heating of the tube by a moving laser beam and
simultaneous kinematic enforcement of deformation with an actuator and a
rotating bending arm. During experimental investigations, the resultant
force of the actuator and temperature at the laser spot are recorded. In
addition to experimental tests, the bending process of the tube was
modelled using the finite element method in the ABAQUS program. For this
purpose, the tube deformation process was divided into two sequentially
coupled numerical simulations. The first one was the heat transfer
analysis for a laser beam moving longitudinally over the tube surface.
The second simulation described the process of mechanical bending with
the time-varying temperature field obtained in the first simulation. The
force and temperature recorded during experiments were used to verify
the proposed numerical model. The final stress state and the deformation
of the tube after the bending process were analyzed using the numerical
solution. The results indicate that the proposed bending method can be
successfully used in forming of the thin-walled profiles, in particular,
when large bending angles and a small spring-back effect are of interest.

Abstrakt

The article presents the results of the investigations performed on high
manganese austenitic steel which underwent the test of uniaxial tension,
with the application of electric current impulses. The application of
low voltage impulse alternating current of high intensity during the
plastic deformation of the examined steel caused the occurrence of the
electroplastic effect, which changed the shape of the stress-strain
curve. A drop of flow stress and elongation of the tested material was
observed in the case of the application of electric current impulses, in
respect of the material stretched without such impulses and stretched at
an elevated temperature. The analysis of the morphology of the fractures
showed differences between the samples tested under the particular
conditions. An analysis of the alloy’s microstructure was also performed
under different conditions. The application of electric current impulses
can have a significant influence on the reduction of the forces in the
plastic forming processes for this type of steel.

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When submitting the manuscript, the authors are requested to suggest names and contact details (affiliations and valid e-mail addresses) of at least three experts who could serve as reviewers. Brief explanation (2-3 sentence-long) why each person is suitable as a reviewer should also be provided. The suggested reviewers cannot be from the same country as affiliation of the corresponding author. The decision to appoint a reviewer belongs solely to the editor. 4.2. Revised manuscript submission When revision of a manuscript is requested, Authors should return the revised version of their manuscript as soon as possible. The revised and added parts of the manuscript must be highlighted. Prompt action may ensure fast publication if a paper is finally accepted for publication in Arch. Metall. Mater. The Authors are requested to return their revised manuscript within 30 days. 4.3. Final proofreading Authors will receive a pdf file with the edited version of their manuscript for final proofreading. This is the last opportunity to view an article before its publication on the journal web site. No changes or modifications can be introduced once it is published. Thus authors are requested to check their proof pages carefully against manuscript within 3 working days and prepare a separate document containing all changes that should be introduced. This document should be sent to the Editorial Office e-mail: amm@imim.pl 4.4. Original version Articles published in the Archives of Metallurgy and Materials (starting from issue 1/2018 vol. 63) will be published on the pages of the publishing house of the Polish Academy of Sciences, Electronic Library of Polish Academy of Sciences.The platform is available at www.czasopisma.pan.pl and www.journals.pan.plThe archival issues of Archives of Metallurgy and Materials (from volume 57, 2012) will be available in the free electronic version on the DeGruyter Open websites by the end of 2018 and for an unlimited period at the Electronic Library Polish Academy of Sciences. 5. Prevent cases of plagiarism Readers should be sure that the authors present the results of their work transparently, fair and honest, regardless of whether they are the direct authors, or used the help of a specialized entity (natural or legal person). To prevent cases of plagiarism, "ghostwriting" and "guest Authorship", the Editorial Office will require that the Authors disclosed the contribution of individual Authors in the creation of manuscript (with their affiliations and contributions, i.e. the information who is responsible for: research concept and design, collection and/or assembly of data, data analysis and interpretation, writing the manuscript). Funding sources (together with grant number) must also be revealed. The corresponding Author will bear the main responsibility for the manuscript. Detected cases will be exposed, including notifying the appropriate entities (institutions employing the Authors, scientific societies, associations of editors of scientific journals, etc.). The publishing platform will be connected to the iThenticate anti-plagiarism system.

Submission of an article to the journal is unequivocal to expressing consent to the publication in both paper and electronic form.